Speakers 2024: from G to K

Magot GAETANI-LISEO

Associate Professor, Ampere Laboratory and Lyon 1 University

Margot Gaetani-Liseo is an Associate Professor at Lyon 1 University since 2022, where she develops his research activities at the Ampere Laboratory. His current research work focuses on the Energy Storage System (ESS) behavior, ageing, control and optimal design for electrical vehicles, microgrids or grids applications. She works both on ESS management, modeling and characterization at different scales, from individual cell to an overall system approach, in order to optimize ESS operation and questioning their sustainability.

Florian GALLOIS

Haulotte

Florian Gallois received his Master’s degree in Mathematical Modeling and Applied Analysis from the University Savoie Mont Blanc in France, in 2021. During the last two years of his studies, he completed two internships at the CEA (French Atomic Energy Commission), whose subject was modeling the behavior of lead-acid batteries. Haulotte Group then founded, in collaboration with the CEA, its Ph.D thesis entitled « On-line diagnosis of the state of charge and the state of health of batteries used in electric aerial work platforms, coupled with a multi-physics modeling approach » under the guidance of Dr. Mikaël Cugnet, Dr. Denys Dutykh, and Olivier Guillermin. Currently in the third year of his Ph.D, his work led to the publication of a peer-reviewed paper and a patent. Another patent is being examined by the relevant legal department.

Title abstract: Battery management on aerial work platforms

Yuan GAO

Board Director, Lithium Americas Corporation

A world renowned inventor, Dr Yuan Gao has 30 years of experience in the complete supply chain of lithium-ion battery industry, from lithium extraction to batteries. One of his inventions, the Ti/Mg technology, enables high voltage lithium-ion batteries and is being practiced today in a vast majority of lithium-ion batteries for small portable electronics such as smart phones and tablets. Dr Yuan Gao joined Pulead Technology in May 2014 and had served as its President and CEO until Sept 2019. Currently he is serving on the Board of Directors of Lithium Americas Corporation, as well as the Boards of Advisors of Nano One, Mitra Chem and Pure Lithium while advising Cobco, a cathode precursor producer in Morocco. Previously Dr Gao served as a Corporate Vice President at Molycorp (USA), and a Global Marketing Director and Technology Manager, as well as in other management positions at FMC Corporation Lithium Division, the predecessor to Livent (USA) and today Acardium Lithium. Dr Gao received his BSc from the University of Science and Technology of China, and his PhD in Physics from the University of British Columbia in Canada. He received his postdoc training from Professor Jeff Dahn’s lab at Simon Fraser University. He has also received Executive Education from The Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania in the USA.

Title abstract: Cathode technologies and related supply chain consideration

Caroline GAYA

Electrochemical storage safety engineer, INERIS

Dr. Caroline Gaya has obtained an Engineering degree in Physics and Chemistry with a speciality in “Energy Storage” in 2015. She defended her thesis in electrochemical engineering in 2019. She then took the position of Thermal Runaway project leader at Zodiac Aerospace and Safran from December 2018 to May 2022. She is now Project Manager in Battery safety since June 2022 at INERIS.

Title abstract: Insight on LFP Li-ion battery real risks profile

Stefan GERL

Project Director LIB & Head of Process Technology, EIRICH

Stefan Gerl studied and completed his PhD in process engineering at the University of Karlsruhe. He started his industrial career as a process specialist at Eirich 26 years ago and took over as head of the process technology department in 2002. In 2009, he began developing the new lithium-ion battery sector and has since carried out hundreds of customer trials on a laboratory and pilot scale and successfully commissioned several gigafactories for wet electrodes. Since 2023, as Project Director Lithium Ion Batteries, he has been responsible for the internal coordination of all activities in this market segment.

Title abstract: Electrode production for wet and dry electrodes on a Giga-Pilot and Gigafactory scale with Eirich mixers

Pierre-Yves GILTON

Co-founder, SPRINGVOLT

Title abstract: Towards a new assembly standard : why solderless batteries are a needed paradigm shift for circularity and performance.

Renato Ferreira GONÇALVES

Researcher, Chemistry Centre of the University of Minho

Renato Gonçalves, Ph.D., has a background in Chemistry and Chemistry Analysis Characterization Techniques and obtained his Ph.D. degree in Materials Engineering (2017) at the University of Minho, Portugal. Since 2019, he is working at Chemistry Centre of the University of Minho, Portugal as researcher being involved in various national and international research projects and scientific international collaborations (Cambridge, Bilbao, Ulm). His current research interest involve the development of materials, synthesis and printing techniques for advanced applications and new energy storage materials, including Lithium-ion batteries. He has published more than 80 papers and book chapters as author and co-author.

Title abstract: Improving battery safety by thermal shutdown functionality in lithium-ion electrodes

Raf GOOSSENS

Founder, CEO and Chairman, PEC

Title abstract: Cell Activation – A Game-changing Cell Manufacturing Process

Chirranjeevi GOPAL

CTO & Co-Founder, MITRA CHEM USA

Chirranjeevi (Chirru) Gopal is the CTO and Co-founder of Mitra Chem. Mitra Chem develops and manufactures iron-based cathode active materials for Li-ion batteries. Chirru is responsible for Mitra Chem's technology road-map, including development of next-generation cathodes beyond LFP and external partnerships. Prior to Mitra Chem, he was at Toyota, where he developed informatics approaches to accelerate battery development, early prediction of battery failures and manufacturing analytics for battery production lines. Chirru has a PhD in Materials Science and Applied Physics from California Institute of Technology.

Title abstract: Material trade-offs and design-rules for next generation of LFP-based cathodes

Didier GUILLONNET

Co-founder, AZA Battery

Didier Guillonnet is the CEO and Co-Founder of AZA Battery, a leader in the development of electrically rechargeable zinc-air batteries. His diverse career, spanning software development, digital electronics, and biological research, laid the groundwork for his innovative contributions to technology.

At AZA Battery, his leadership since 2008 has been pivotal in creating a safer, more cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional lead acid and lithium batteries. The zinc-air batteries developed under his guidance offer low energy storage costs and utilize materials that are abundant worldwide, making them ideal for stationary storage, load shifting, and backup power in the context of intermittent renewable electricity production.

Formerly, as the founder and CEO of BCG Production in Armenia, he specialized in producing high-purity sapphire crystals for the scientific and laser industries.

Guillonnet's technical and entrepreneurial achievements are underpinned by his engineering education at Centrale Supélec, which has significantly shaped his impactful career. His expertise and forward-thinking approach to energy storage will be a key asset at the upcoming Battery Event, promising valuable insights into the future of energy solutions.

Title abstract: AZA Advanced Zinc-Air: Low-Cost and Green Batteries for Stationary Storage

Markus HAGEN

Co-founder, BATALYSE

Title abstract: Automating data processing in battery R&D – from test data to battery passport

Thomas HAMANN

Sales Manager, Auerhammer Metallwerk

Title abstract: Revolutionizing solid state batteries with Auerhammer’s ultra-thin metal foils

Srirama HARIHARAN

Lithium ion battery Consultant EMEA, HONEYWELL

Dr. Srirama Hariharan, with a Ph.D. in lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and an MBA in innovation and strategy, boasts over 15 years of hands-on experience in battery technology. His expertise spans R&D, pilot, and production facilities across Asia and Europe. Currently, as Honeywell's Technology Solutions Consultant for gigafactories, Dr. Srirama leverages his deep technical knowledge and practical industry insights to drive innovation and excellence in gigafactory automation. His unique blend of technical and strategic expertise positions him at the forefront of advancing battery manufacturing technologies.

Title abstract: Battery Manufacturing Excellence: Where Safety, Efficiency and Quality Come Together

Ralf HOFFMANN

Head of New Business Development, Elantas

Dr. Ralf Hoffmann currently works as the Head of New Business Development at ELANTAS, a division of ALTANA. In this role, he is responsible for adapting and applying divisional specialty chemistry products, materials, and competencies to new applications for potential customers in new emerging markets. He has a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Münster, Germany and has dedicated his career to specialty chemistry polymers for industrial use. With over 20 years of experience in this field across various companies, he has spent the past decade focusing on innovative solutions for batteries, particularly within the electric vehicle (EV) market. At ALTANA, Dr. Hoffmann has been instrumental in developing additive and coating solutions for use inside battery cells, as well as polymeric specialties for thermal management and electrical insulation for module and pack assemblers or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Title abstract: Effective and efficient electrical insulation by UV coating inside the battery pack - cells, cooling elements, housing

Luc HOVAN

Vice-President, Integration and Infrastructure, NORTHVOLT

Luke HU

Electroder

Mr. Luke Hu co-founded Electroder, a World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer focused on battery cell design and development. He is currently focusing on building the company’s global business and advising Electroder’s clients in planning and executing electrode and cell assembly development projects. Mr. Hu has been leading his team in completing various cell R&D projects, developing advanced design tools, and building new cell development process. Under his leadership, Electroder joined the Global Battery Alliance as its first member focusing on battery design and development in 2022. Before co-founding Electroder, Mr. Hu had a decade of experience in manufacturing and technology and held a variety of management roles globally. Mr. Hu graduated with an MBA degree from Cornell University and a bachelor’s degree of engineering from Beijing University of Technology.

Title abstract: Prediction of cell life and failure analysis in virtual environment

Ollie IACOPI

Business Value Consulting, AVEVA

Ollie Iacopi leads AVEVA’s Business Value Consulting function for APAC, and pioneers AVEVA’s EV battery manufacturing value proposition globally. His experience spans manufacturing, energy, mining, and engineering industries – where he leads strategies for value creation with AVEVA’s portfolio.

Title abstract: Creating an intelligent data platform to enable circularity for the EV battery ecosystem

Viktor IRLE

Sales Director, EV volumes

Title abstract: An update on the recent and expected future of EV Sales and the implications on Automotive battery demand

Hassoun ISHAK

International Project and Sales Manager, Granutools

I am a Sales Manager at Granutools, specializing in the international marketing and sales of advanced industrial equipment. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nantes, my expertise lies in the study and simulation of composite structures.

Before joining Granutools, I held various project management and technical service roles, including positions at FIB Belgium, Smart Airport Systems, and Bridgestone Aircraft Tire Europe. My career has been marked by successfully expanding markets, managing strategic projects, and optimizing product performance for clients like Airbus and Boeing.

I am fluent in multiple languages, including Arabic, French, English, and Italian, which enables me to effectively operate in global business environments. I am committed to providing innovative solutions and excellent customer service, and I look forward to presenting at the upcoming Batteries Event, where I will discuss advancements in electric battery technology.

Title abstract: Using powder characterization tools for battery research and development

Jakub KĄCKI

Business Development Manager, UL Solutions

Jakub Kącki has been with UL Solutions for 18 years. He is the global Business Development Manager focused on global battery business (portable, wearable, micromobility) within the Consumer, Medical and Information Technology division at UL Solutions. He works with Commercial, Operations and Field Services departments to drive the development of safety-related services and programs for batteries, information technology equipment, consumer electronics products, micromobility and more. Throughout his career he was holding multiple Sales and Subject Matter Expert roles, working with UL Solutions global and local customers, within global organization, to drive safety and sustainability Testing, Inspection & Certification services among industry.

Title abstract: Latest Standardization, Certification and Regulatory updates for consumer use batteries and micro-mobility

Julian KALHOFF

Battery Business Development Manager, TRINSEO

Julian Kalhoff is a Battery Business Development Manager at Trinseo focusing on the European market by providing innovative binder solutions for the battery industry. With more than 12 years of experience in the battery industry, Julian held various positions in technical, business development and commercial areas at Huntsman and Venator before joining Trinseo in 2021. Julian holds a diploma degree in Chemistry and received his PhD in battery science from MEET battery research institute in Muenster, Germany in 2015.

Title abstract: Next-Generation Anode Binders: Driving Performance and Manufacturing Standards

Zouina KARKAR

Research Officer, National Research Council Canada

Title abstract: The future of Solid-State Batteries from an Intellectual Property Landscape Perspective

Nikolaus KEUTH

Department Manager Product & Solution Management, AVL List Gmbh

Dr. Nikolaus Keuth is a mechanical engineer who loves working on automotive engineering, automation and control theory. He earned his PhD in automation and control from the Technical University in Vienna, where he did amazing research on data driven modelling in 2004. He has been part of the AVL List GmbH family for over 15 years, a leading company in the development of powertrain systems and test systems for the automotive industry. He has taken on various leadership roles at AVL, such as project manager, product manager, and department manager for data analysis and modelling products. He is now the product manager for data analytics products in the battery and cell development area, where he uses his skills in data driven modelling and optimization to create innovative solutions.

Title abstract: Battery Health Monitoring: AI based Analytics and Anomaly Detection for Enhanced Electric Vehicle Performance

Otto KIVI

Senior Business Development Specialist, Stora Enso

Otto Kivi is working as a Senior Business Development Specialist at Stora Enso, focusing on company’s bio-based anode material Lignode. He has over 20 years of experience in international sales and business development of different bio-based solutions. Stora Enso is a leading Global biomaterial company from Scandinavia, operations in 50 countries and turnover around 10 billion EUR.

Title abstract: Tree based anode material - how we will the most sustainable anode

Michael KRUFT

Global Director Technology Application, Umicore AG & Co Kg

Dr. Michael Kruft received his PhD in Electrochemistry and Surface Science in 1997 from the University of Bonn, Germany. He has more than 25 years of global experience in the rechargeable battery industry with UMICORE, Toda Kogyo and H.C. Starck. With positions in battery materials research & development, sales & marketing as well as manufacturing and senior management, he assumed responsibility for R&D teams, application labs, pilot plants, plants and large investment projects (e.g. USD 70 Million DOE funded cathode material plant) in Germany, Japan, Canada, USA and South Korea. Since 2024, he is leading the global Technology Application Team of UMICORE’s Battery Materials Division.

Olivier KUENY

Senior Officer Lending Operations, EIB

Olivier Kueny is a Senior Loan Officer in the Project & Structured Finance department at the EIB, where he is covering Project Finance activities, notably in relation to EV Battery Gigafactories, Battery Energy Storage Systems and renewables in Western Europe. He notably led the EIB structuring and lending teams on the Verkor gigafactory in Dunkirk and AESC one in Douai. Previously, Olivier worked as Senior PPP Specialist at the Asian Development Bank in Manila advising Central Asian Governments on PPPs; Chief Investment Officer at AMEA Power in Dubai developing power projects in Africa and Asia; and Director in Project Finance at HSBC in Dubai and London. Before his MBA, he was an Operations Manager in an EDF nuclear power plant in France. Olivier has an MBA from London Business School and is an engineer from Mines ParisTech.

Stefan KUPFERSCHMID

Senior Sustainability Consultant, Sector Lead Automotive & Batteries SPHERA

Stefan Kupferschmid is a senior sustainability consultant and mechanical engineer with more than eight years of professional experience. He is with Sphera since 2017 and has been working before that in the R&D department of an automotive Tier 1 supplier. At Sphera he has been working on multiple projects in the field of sustainable fuels and mobility. Since 2020 he is responsible for the sustainability consulting projects in the automotive sector with strong focus on product sustainability and life cycle assessment (LCA). He has been involved in a multitude of LCA projects with industrial clients and international organisations on the environmental assessment of entire cars as well as batteries. As sector lead, he has a strong understanding of the most pressing topics of the industry when it comes to sustainability aspects. Deriving decarbonisation strategies and enabling clients to fulfil regulatory compliance with respect to sustainability are his main focus areas.

John H. KWON

General Counsel Global Legal & Strategy, CATL